In the words of seventeenth-century mathematician, philosopher, physicist and Catholic, Blaise Pascal, “Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from a religious conviction.” Does religion breed intolerance, violence, and the promotion of medieval ideas? Or should we concede that overall, it has been a source for good, giving followers purpose, while encouraging morality and ethical behavior?

For the motion: Matthew Chapman who is an author, filmmaker and co-founder of Science Debate and A.C. Grayling who is a renowned atheist and Professor of Philosophy

Against the motion: Dinesh D'Souza who is President of The King's College and author of What's So Great About Christianity and Rabbi David Wolpe who was named the #1 Pulpit Rabbi in America by Newsweek.